The Cornerstone School and Forest High School EMIT program will hold the 10th annual Robopalooza robotics tournament beginning at 9:15 a.m. Jan. 6 at Forest, 5000 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala. This is the biggest First Lego League Regional Qualifying Tournament in the state. A Jr. Expo will be held for kindergarten through third grade students. There will be interactive stations for guests to explore. Visit facebook.com/events/540426129649206.

Chili cook-off

The Belleview Chili Cook-Off will be held 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Jan. 6 at Lake Lillian, Southeast Robinson Road, Belleview. Participants will be judged in “Best of Show,” “Best Business,” “Best Club/Organization” and “Best Individual” as well as Peoples Choice awards for “Best Chili” and “Best Booth.” There will be craft and business booths, a kids area and exhibits. Proceeds benefit St. Theresa Catholic Church. Booths fees are $30-$35. Event admission is $5. Call 207-6718 or email mariahsevents@gmail.com.

Recruiting event

Marion County Fire Rescue and the Marion County Board of County Commissioners are opening the Non-Certified Fire Academy to fill 45 firefighter, paramedic and emergency medical technician positions.

In collaboration with CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion, Marion Technical College and the Florida State Fire College, the program includes 22 weeks of paid training and guaranteed employment with MCFR upon certification. It is geared for those with roots in Marion County but is open to candidates from Citrus and Levy counties as well.

A recruiting event will take place 9 to 11 a.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. Jan. 10 at the CF Webber Center, 3001 SW College Road, in Ocala. Informational sessions will be held every 30 minutes. Eligible candidates must be US citizens at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, speak and read English and have a valid Florida driver’s license. Applicants must have abstained from tobacco use for at least 12 prior months and may not use tobacco products during employment with the department.

For more information, call 291-8020 or 800-434-JOBS, ext. 1115.

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